Requirements: OS X 10.12+
, 39.5MB size
Version 2.2(418) (3 Nov, 2021) Release notes
Category: MultimediaApplication
If you connect Mac to TV wirelessly, this opens up many opportunities. For example, you can use the TV as a secondary display, or stream and view movies on it. The same applies to cables. They are less convenient, but wired connection has its upsides.
No matter which model of MacBook you’re using, the methods are the same - you can utilize a third-party app or the built-in AirPlay mirroring feature, or go to Settings to switch the main display. Read on to find out more.
JustStream is a Menu Bar widget with advanced streaming and mirroring functionality. Using a cable to connect MacBook to TV will seem redundant. It stands out by introducing features such as playlists, video quality adjustment, external tracks, and more. By using JustStream, you can choose both the mirroring/streaming source (if you have multiple displays, for example) and the target device in several clicks.
JustStream can connect to any receiver, and it handles high-resolution movies perfectly. If you want to connect Mac to LG TV wirelessly, look no further. In fact, it doesn’t just connect to TVs, but also to dongles like Chromecast.
Don’t want to use HDMI, DVI or USB to connect Mac to Sony Bravia? For an annual subscription of $12.99, JustStream will handle the task perfectly. You even get 20 minutes to give it a try for free.
Note: The JustStream Audio Driver is required to enable sound mirroring, but there’s no need for separate downloads. It’s included in the installer.
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Click the '+' to add files which need to be streamed.
Use the list above to select the receiver.
Press 'Start Streaming'. The media should now be displayed on the TV.
An Apple TV can mirror the screen contents of a macOS device. This doesn’t require additional apps. Apple has developed its own AirPlay utilities that connect any compatible devices, such as iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, Macs and MacBooks. This way, a MacBook can use an Apple TV as an additional display.
Note: You can also use the Apple TV remote to stop. Just press the “Menu” key.
On any given MacBook, you may find a dedicated graphics port (HDMI, micro DVI, VGA, or a Mini DisplayPort), or a USB-type connector (this includes Thunderbolt 2 and 3). Newer models are less likely to feature graphics ports, opting for multiple USB sockets instead. Some only have one. How to connect Mac to TV if you don’t have the necessary ports? Use an adapter instead.
Two HDMI, VGA or DVI ports can be connected with a simple cable. VGA to HDMI and DVI to VGA adapters also exist. However, it’s unlikely that you’ll find any of these ports on a newer MacBook. For instance, MacBook Air only has 2 Thunderbolt ports.
Most likely, you’ll either need to use a USB cable (Thunderbolt 3 is directly compatible with USB-C), or a USB to HDMI adapter. Different types of USB will also require adapters - for example, MacBooks with Thunderbolt 2 need a special connector to attach to USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 cords.
Note: Go to the Apple menu and open “System Preferences > Displays > Arrangement” to change the way that the TV is used by your Mac. You can mirror your Mac’s display, or use the TV as a second monitor.
Enabling TV sound: Go to “System Preferences > Sound > Output”. From there, you can choose the TV as your sound device (only available for certain connector types).
Cables and adapters cause a lot of inconvenience - ranging from tripping hazards to tangling, and that includes the costs. WiFi connection is a lot more universal, and it’s suitable for most purposes, such as watching movies, or giving presentations. In our opinion, unless you’re gaming, the wireless method is completely superior.
FAQ